Residents in Lira decry increase in fruit prices

Lira, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | Residents of Lira City are decrying the sharp increase in the prices of fruits which has resulted in scarcity.

With the belief by residents that lemons boost their immunity against the coronavirus (COVID-19), more people are now including lemons on their groceries shopping list.

A survey conducted by URN in markets in Lira City shows the demand for fruits especially oranges and tamarin are on the rise. The price of other commodities that include ginger, garlic, red pepper, and lemongrass has also increased.

Previously, the vendors would buy a basin of big lemons at 20,000 to 25,000 Shillings but the price has increased to 50,000 Shillings, while a basin of small lemons has doubled from 5,000 to 20,000 Shillings.

A sack of ginger is being sold at 350,000 from 200,000 Shillings, a bag of garlic costs 250,000 Shillings from 110, 000 shillings. A kilogram of ginger has also increased from 3,000 to 5,000 Shillings.

Maska Tina Auma, a resident of Lira says that since consuming fruits boosts one’s immunity, the fruits should readily be available in the market at an affordable price.

Robert Olwa, another resident of Lira City is worried that some people may not afford fruits because of the high price.

Jacky Awor, a food vendor at Lira Main Market attributes the increase in prices to the high demand for ginger and garlic. She also says that following the ban on inter-district travel, local farmers can’t supply the commodities to the vendors.

Nancy Akaki Opeta, a fruit vendor in Lira City says despite the high demand for oranges and lemons, several vendors are abandoning selling fruits due to the high price.

Fred Wamatabu, a trader in Lira market is worried that the ban on the inter-district movement has restrained their clients in the neighbouring districts to buy the products.

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URN